Mike Leech, the former president of Sonepar subsidiary Irby, passed away Feb. 16, Sonepar officials announced last week. He was 72.
Leech spent 38 years at Irby, beginning in the company’s warehouse and “learning the business from the ground up,” Sonepar officials said. He retired in 2020.
A celebration of life is planned for March 14 in Franklin, Tennessee, according to an obituary.
“Mike was a proud veteran and a devoted family man, qualities that shaped the way he led, served, and cared for the people around him,” Sonepar Americas President Rob Taylor said in a statement. “Few people have embodied dedication and loyalty the way Mike did. There was never a day Mike wasn’t there for the company, and he could always be trusted to do what was right. We will miss him deeply.”
"Mike was truly a beautiful person. Through him we saw the beauty of humility, perseverance, and the quest for victory,” added Andy Waring, the Central region president at Sonepar USA. “Mike lived life to the fullest and brought joy and laughter to all of us who had the privilege to know him. We are grateful for the many memories with Mike, 'the Boss,' and his spirit will continue to inspire us."
